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JJ “Superman” Ambrose might have sat on his contract with Bellator Fighting Championships as a In This Issue dad’s lap until he was 12 (true story), but he can still contestant in their March tournament. your ass. Having just snatched up the When asked about his motivation - his desire to - FitnIenssTShtairs Philippines National Championship in submission fight - Ambrose answers as he always does - Ocean Bloom , the Ultimate Fighter vet and TMT pro is honestly and to-the-point. on the cusp of breaking into “It’s really not about Returns to TMT the big show. money,” begins the fighter. Many believe the offer “I’d love to say I fight for my - Tiger Moves to will arrive when his four-fight Superman family but that would be BS. the Future deal with Pacific Xtreme It’s not about hurting people Combat (PXC) runs its course Strikes Again! either. I’ve just always wanted - Big Buddha: next year and, when Dana to fight. I can’t help it. I just White comes knocking this came out swinging.” What to Expect? time, Ambrose will be ready. His father Joe agrees, saying that “I was off my rocker during the Ambrose came out of the womb - The Beauty of Ultimate Fighter,” explains the 24 fighting for the underdogs of the the Wai Khru year-old Californian. “I wasn’t world. thinking properly. I didn’t even “He was always such a good kid,” - Two Television end up making it into the house remembers Joe. “He wouldn’t let Shows Film at which was kind of embarrassing.” anyone get picked on. The world Refocused and unwilling to changed the day he was born. He’s Tiger blow his second chance, the happily pretty much my reason for existing married father of one has been training and I hope with everything I have that - Fight Girls Star and coaching at TMT full-time since April, he gets his dream.” Ariana Rameriz moving his record to 17-3. Ambrose feels the weight of the expectations Stops By “There is something classic about ,” around him, but says he uses that encouragement to he explains. “There’s a magic to it. Tiger has opened bolster his dedication. - Thai Trainer me to a whole new martial art. Before it was all “It’s a burden and a blessing at the same time. hands and feet. Now it’s more knees and elbows. The There is no choice for me. I don’t know what else I Mac in the Thais have a different mindset. They have a natural would do with my life. It’s not that I’m not capable Spotlight swagger.” of anything else. It’s just that nothing else would It's that swagger that's helped him nail a fight seem right.” Tiger Alumnus Ebersole Grinds Out Decision Win A last-minute opponent switch didn't seem split decision win pushes his pro record to to faze Brian Ebersole all that much. He 49-14-1. Having trained at Tiger twice before, managed to put an end to 's Ebersole came out a third time for three weeks winning streak at UFC 140 on Dec. 10th. The this past October to prep for the fight. "I had some really good training partners," Ebersole told TMT productions shortly before he left. "It's been a pretty fun little whirlwind of excitement." Having just signed a deal with Tapout, life can't get much better according to Ebersole. "I've been blessed with a lot of opportunity." Ebersole had a friendly battle with MMA pro Benny Alloway (far left) while training at Tiger. He also gave an eagerly-awaited seminar.

TIGER MUAY THAI & MMA TRAINING CAMP 7/6 Moo 5 Soi Tad-ied , Ao Chalong, Muang Phuket, , 8310 TMT Office: +66 (0)76 367 071, Night Office: +66 (0)86 596 9090 [email protected] Guest Testimonial of the Week Marcel Klein Goes from Ordinary to Outstanding The three months I spent at Tiger Muay Thai & MMA were absolutely awesome!!! Not only did I take part in world class training, but I was also able to see the best of everything that Phuket has to offer with the help of my knowledgeable and friendly guide Mr. Chris Moir who runs Kickin' It Tiger. My reasons for coming to Tiger weren't necessarily to become a fighter. I was, however, able to participate in excellent Muay Thai training as well as their Body Fit class which was, at that time, run by pro fighter Dorian Price. He was nothing short of excellent in helping me to achieve my goals while here. Along with Body Fit, I spent many, many consecutive days in the weight room with industry professional, and overall nice guy, Peter “The Thai Hulk,” who is TMT's strength and conditioning coach. He also happens to be a full-time professional bodybuilder competing regularly on the Asia super circuit. In the past three months my daily weight training was focused on volume – less weight, more reps (ten sets of ten) for every exercise. My training/dieting here at the camp was also made well easier with the on-site location of the Tiger Grill serving a wide variety of healthy and delicious meal options that were utterly approximately 7 per cent body fat. essential in helping me properly execute my low-carb diet plan. Thanks Tiger and Kickin' It for helping me to have the absolute Since then, I've managed to put on 5 kg's of lean mass and drop best trip possible here in beautiful Phuket!!! Fight Girl Star and Muay Thai World Champion Heats up Tiger Tongues were wagging last week at TMT as female Muay Thai world champion and star of Oxygen’s “Fight Girls,” Ariana Ramirez, stepped into the ring. The beauty couldn’t pass up some private training with WMC and Rajadamnern Stadium Champion, Lamsongkram Chuwattana while in Thailand. Alongside her husband, four-time world Muay Thai champion Kru Alberto Ramirez, the two snuck in some at Tiger while on their second honeymoon. Both retired from fighting, the couple own and operate Chaisai Muay Thai in Seattle, which has the most champions in the Washington area. When it comes to knowing what it takes to win, Kru Alberto’s advice is clear. “You have to sacrifice,” he says matter-of-factly. “Success doesn’t come without a price. Your best fights will come after some of your hardest losses. If you haven’t lost, you haven’t fought the right people.” The couple, who were married in 2002, plan on returning to Tiger Muay Thai next year, saying TMT has added a personalized approach to Muay Thai training with its all-around targeting of fitness and nutrition.

SPECIAL PROMOTION Important Dates to Keep in Mind Dec 17th - Camp closed from 7 pm onwards for the staff Buy 2,000 Baht worth of product from the Christmas Party. Tiger Gear Shop and No Muay Thai classes due to the camp’s annual blessing ceremony. get 10% off for the TMT Phi Phi cruise trip from 8-5 pm. Regularly 2,500 holidays! Baht/Special price 1,900 Baht. Snorkeling and buffet lunch included. Dec. 18- TMT Holiday: Office & Camp Closed Pick up your TMT Dec. 19 - Poth Pard-Noi Wor Rawut , the man credited for clothing, hand wraps, bringing Muay Thai to Europe 30 years ago, is holding a shinguards, gloves seminar at 3 pm. He was Thailand's top Muay Thai fighter in and everything in 1972. Cost: 300 Baht Tiger Guests/500 Baht for non-guests. Dec. 24 - BBQ Beatdown 43: Christmas Edition between today! Dec. 25 - Grill Closed. Camp open 11-5 pm Dec. 31 & Jan. 1st- TMT Office and Camp Closed. Atherton

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Copyright

Top fitness competitor and model returns to TMT An Ocean Apart From Ordinary She walks into the room, unassuming and undone - her hair Fitness Champion who was raised as an only child by a single in a ponytail and her heart on her sleeve. There are no costumes mom. "I didn’t have a family environment. As a competitor I and no heavy make-up. There is nothing to suggest grandeur and trained by myself and I didn’t have that group energy or yet, in an instant, it’s easy to tell why Ocean Bloom has managed camaraderie. I found what I was missing in Thailand. I found my to become one of North America’s family when I came to Tiger.” leading fitness personalities. "Thailand and Back in Phuket after a brief stint in One would understand if she copped Canada, Bloom is now teaching yoga and an attitude. After all, she’s competed in Tiger have been Body Fit classes at Tiger Muay Thai. She over thirty fitness competitions - winning such amazing is also available for private training about 80 per cent of them, and been featured sessions. in over fifty magazines - many of them blessings." Bloom’s primary focus is on strength, covers. flexibility, and endurance. Understanding She’s worked with celebrities like Jean- that people of all fitness levels come to her Claude Van Damme and Arnold sessions, she aims to make everyone work to Schwarzenegger, been involved with movies the best of their ability. such as X Men 2 and I Robot, and made dozens “I believe in empowerment, not of television appearances. punishment. In my classes I like to create In short, she’s a major star without the major positive experiences that motivate and energize," ego - something she attributes to an awakening says Bloom, who has taken over 500 hours of several years ago. yoga teacher training. “I competed for 14 years,” starts the blue-eyed "One of the reasons I came back to Tiger is Canadian beauty. because my perception is that many people, for “It was an outlet for creative and physical whatever reason, don’t feel loved, supported expression. That was the initial draw, but it or encouraged in their daily lives. became about being judged. It became so At TMT you are surrounded by a ton of extreme that my life felt empty and lacking in people who want you to reach your goal. You other ways. People thought I was beautiful on won’t be judged. We just appreciate you the outside, but I wasn’t experiencing joy and coming into our family.” fulfillment. I felt disconnected from my real purpose Copyright Rodney Jang Yoga runs Monday through Friday at 6:30 am in life.” with Body Fit following at 8 am. A second Body Fit class (not It was that search for purpose that drew her to Thailand and, included in monthly training fees) runs at 3 pm. thanks to friend and MMA star Roger Huerta, Tiger Muay Thai. Private sessions with Ocean can be bought at the front office “I’ve lived a very solitary life,” explains the 2005 World for a cost of 1,500 Baht.

BBQ Beatdown #43: Christmas Edition Don't Forget December 24th Tickets 400 Baht in Advance or 500 Baht at the Door In This Issue

(Above)"Embarrassing Bodies" show host, Dr. Dawn Harper, gets a lift from a few hard-bodied fighters. Easy boys! She's married! UK's Hit Show "Embarrassing Bodies" Shoots at TMT The doctor was in the house last week as The UK show, which highlights embarrassing Channel 4’s award-winning television show, medical conditions, has won two BAFTA awards Embarrassing Bodies, filmed at Tiger Muay Thai. since its inception in 2007. The crew originally Twelve TMT guest fighters starred in the came on-site to do a special about current TMT special, which will highlight safe sex and a healthy guest, James Mason who has lost 63 kg to date and lifestyle. battled a rare bacterial infection. “The segment we filmed was a bit of fun with "James has an incredible story," says the a serious message underneath,” explains show mother of three. "He's one of those people who James Mason host, Dr. Dawn Harper. “The guys were wild! I’m will reach their goals." gets his really impressed with this camp and the discipline After seeing the camp, the show decided to moment of the fighters here. We couldn’t have picked a shoot an additional segment on-site. Both shows better spot for filming.” air in February 2012. Don't Forget! K-1 Kickboxer, Rickard Nordstrand, Back at Tiger * Training prices for You wouldn't know it by talking to him, but Peter, the Thai Hulk, Rickard Nordstrand is a pretty big deal. Not only is have increased to the Swedish K-1 kickboxer a WMC World Light Heavyweight Champion, but he's also a movie star. 1,000 Baht per session "We've filmed two movies and the first is coming out Jan.13th," says the fighter with a slightly * Yoga starts at 6:30 embarrassed grin. "It's a James Bond type of thing." am instead of 7 am Having been to Tiger four times, Nordstrand originally started fighting as a way to stay fit for Tiger Muay Thai would hockey. "When I started fighting there was just like to extend our something special about it. There is this mixed deepest sympathies to sense of hate, happiness and fear." TMT Trainer When asked if his fighting days are done now Komrit and his that the lights and cameras are on, Nordstrand family on the loss of his hesitates. father who died in a "I've said before that I won't fight anymore, but motorcycle accident then I do it again. I'll never say that I'm done for sure. Dec. 12th. You just never know what's going to happen." Explore Phuket The Toughest Climb in Town They say getting there is half the fun. "They" obviously haven't been to Big Buddha. Sitting approximately 25 meters wide by 45 meters high, it isn't just the world's largest Buddha that impresses. The road leading there is equally as jaw-dropping with its winding, uphill path and steep inclines. The rewards, however, are worth the pain. Friendly elephants, cheeky monkeys, blessings from monks and stunning sea views await anyone willing to tackle the five kilometer hike. A few tips: - Take a right out of TMT followed by a left at the main road. Follow the signs and watch for the turnoff on your right. -Remember to bring money (plenty of pit-stops available on your way up), water and sunscreen. -Keep in mind that this is a sacred space, so sleeveless arms and exposed legs will be covered with sarongs upon your arrival. - It is possible to be blessed by a monk once inside. Remember to (Above) The Big Buddha looms at sunset. (Below left) TMT remove your shoes and wait your turn. Once signaled kneel in front of the guest, Cara Bianchetto, gets a smooch from her new friend monk to receive your bracelet and blessing. Popeye,while (below right) TMT guest Alan "The Kid" Gutierrez checks out the view on the way to the top. Advice from the Pros (aka TMT Guests) "Don't let them charge you to take photos at the viewpoint." Karl Grouwstra (UK) "Just take a bike! Don't walk or run." Steve Wadley (USA) "It's a bad Idea to rock up there at night. You better watch out for the stray elephants!" Fredrik Bjornander (Sweden) "You'll want to quit within the first five minutes - don't!" Cara Bianchetto

Thai Trainer Spotlight Ajarn Mac: The Highest Ranked Trainer at Tiger Raised in a poor family, Samurn During the prime of his fighting Suttiwiset (aka Ajarn Mac) didn't career Mac competed on Thai have fancy toys or expensive family television beating notable fighters holidays. Tiger's master instructor Ruan Pair Sitwatnang and Wichannai does, however, vividly remember the Pornthaw. He also claimed the E-San day he discovered something much Championship belt. more valuable. Retiring at the age of 33, Mac is "There was a temple festival now Head Trainer Phet Chaimanee's once a year," explains the veteran of assistant at TMT. He's been with 196 fights - 146 of them wins. "I'll Tiger Muay Thai for five years and never forget seeing my first Muay says there's no way he'll ever leave. . It seemed like a "Everything here is perfect," gentleman's sport. It looked says Suttiwiset, who has trained honorable and fair." many Muay Thai champions. "Tiger By the age of 10, Mac had has a system that works and it is started fighting to help support his organized. Everyone has their own family, training under his uncle, responsibility and that makes for former Ratchadamnern champion, better training." Yodthong Sahaisurk. He soon When asked about the legacy he became known for his strong leaves for his family and if he wants elbowing technique with few his son to study Muay Thai, the opponents able to block it. trainer simply shakes his head. "Fighting is man to man," says "I want my son to do something the married father of two. "But it is different and know more about the Head trainer Phet Chaimanee (left) translated the always about you. You fight world. There are already enough interview with Samurn Suttiwiset (aka Mac) yourself. It's about what's inside." fighters in the family." pictured on the right. Former Miss Switzerland Brings Travel Show to TMT The bevy of beauties continued at There’s no way you’ll get something Tiger Muay Thai last week with like this anywhere else.” former Miss Switzerland, Tajna The show, which features the Gutmann, and Nina-Vanessa ladies trying a variety of different Heinemann on-site to study the art of adventure activities, has already Muay Thai. filmed in the Canary The hosts of the "This was the Islands, the Dominican new Swiss travel show, perfect experience Republic and Egypt. The Holiday Checker, because it was “Traveling has been learned the ropes during real." an incredible experience,” the beginner’s Muay exclaims Gutmann. “It has Thai class before going Show Host Nina- allowed us to see so many one-on-one with Vanessa Heinemann wonderful things and meet Rachadamnuen such amazing people...just champions, Kru Lamsongkram and like the people here at Tiger.” his brother, Kru Laimangkon. When asked to compare her “This was the perfect experience pageant days to her day of training, because it was real,” explained the former title holder could only Heinemann right after the session. shake her head and laugh. “It isn’t just for tourists. I can’t The Holiday Checker airs believe what you get for the price. February 2012. Tiger Muay Thai on the Move: An Interview with the Man on Top Will McNamara, the owner of Tiger Muay Thai, is a bit like How has TMT evolved over the past few years? Charlie from Charlie's Angels. You don't actually see him much in We have worked hard to develop new training programs like the flesh, but he's always there. Guiding Tiger on a daily basis, Body Fit and TRX, but always keeping our eye on giving our MacNamara helps oversee every aspect of the camp from afar and guests the best experience we can offer. We have also worked has big plans for the future. hard on the development of the BBQ Beatdowns and giving guests a chance to have amateur fights in Muay Thai, , MMA, and What makes Tiger different? BJJ. TMT is committed to our continuing responsibility to the We are now expanding TMT to other locations like Chiang Kingdom of Thailand and to our employees to represent and Mai and offering investors in other areas of the world a chance to promote the national sport of Thailand the best we can. become a part of the TMT family and the experience. TMT believes in the ancient traditions that Muay Thai is built on for over 700 years. We honor those traditions by showing What's in store? respect for the sport and those involved in cherishing the heritage More of the same! TMT is built on the foundation of offering of Muay Thai. TMT will continue to help our trainers and their our guests a unique and quality experience while training in families whenever and however we can. Thailand at TMT. Our guests come first in all things we do at TMT. Will Elliott it set to become the new President of Operations for Thailand. I have Why Do Muay Thai Fighters a great belief in Elliott's ability to attain the Dance Before a Fight? goals I set forth for TMT and always remember The Wai Khru Ram Muay is a ritual that serving and helping our guests is our performed before every fight to show respect first priority. to the fighter's teachers. Elliott will be leading the way as we Wai is the action of putting the hands complete our newest training camp in together like a prayer. Khru means teacher. Chiang Mai and the next outside . Ram refers to the old traditional style and We will also be expanding into foreign Muay means boxing. markets across the world with the TMT The Wai Khru involves circling the ring brand. three times before kneeling and bowing three What is the vision for TMT? times. The fighter traditionally bows to Tiger Buddha to ask for protection for himself and Always be setting new goals that serve Trainer our guests best interests and that of TMT as his opponent. Noppadet, The Ram Muay demonstrates the fighter's a business. Always be innovative in the "King of identifying trends in our industry and lead control and style. It is done towards the Knees," audience and can be quite personalized. Often the way setting an example for others to demonstrates follow. TMT will lead the way in bringing it gives hints to the fighter's background and the Wai Khru training. authentic Muay Thai training to the rest of the world.